Olive-Cheese Puffs
Olive-Cheese Puffs are savory, bite-sized appetizers featuring a delightful combination of salty olives and sharp cheese, coated in a seasoned dough. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they offer a crispy exterior with a flavorful, cheesy interior that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the grated cheese, soft butter, flour, salt, and paprika until well combined.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to form a dough.
- Mold about 1 teaspoon of dough around each olive, covering completely.
- Place the prepared puffs on an ungreased cookie sheet and refrigerate.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses such as feta or goat cheese in place of sharp cheese. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough mixture. Make sure the butter is soft enough to easily blend with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth dough that's easy to mold around the olives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these olive-cheese puffs as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with Tomato Rice or a fresh Tomato And Pasta Salad for a complete meal. Consider offering a selection of dips, such as garlic aioli or marinara sauce, to enhance the flavors and provide variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive-Cheese Puffs contains roughly 320 calories, with 9g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of olives?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of olives, such as kalamata or garlic-stuffed varieties. Each will impart a unique flavor to the puffs, adding a twist to the traditional recipe. Just ensure that the olives are pitted to avoid any surprises while eating.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Form it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply slice off pieces and mold them around the olives as directed.
Are these puffs suitable for freezing?
Yes, these olive-cheese puffs can be frozen before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 400°F, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).